Plans being developed to open electric bus charging sites to fleets

Plans are being developed to open electric bus charging sites to cars, vans and lorries to allow businesses to charge electric vehicles (EVs).

SSE Energy Solutions and SWARCO Smart Charging are currently looking at opportunities around the UK to equip bus depots with EV charging facilities which could be made available for use by local business fleets.

The concept is that while buses are out of the depot, sites could be made available during daytime hours for other businesses who wish to charge their EVs.

The idea was highlighted during a visit to Sharston bus depot in Greater Manchester, which is used by Stagecoach and features 32 EV charging stations.

Kevin Welstead, electric vehicle sector director for SSE Energy Solutions, said: “SSE Energy Solutions are working with Stagecoach and SWARCO on a number of sites across the UK, utilising our range of services to provide the optimal electrical infrastructure for each depot.

“We look forward to continuing to develop these relationships by building on our existing successes, and by working together for a green future for all modes of transport.

“By focussing on interoperability of chargers for electric vehicles across the network and efficient use of assets we can work together to benefit more electric vehicle users and support the nationwide transition to zero emission vehicles.”

SSE highlighted the shared charging idea as part of a tour of the UK’s green energy and sustainable transport projects in the run up to the COP26 climate summit on November 1, in Glasgow.

Justin Meyer, managing director at SWARCO Smart Charging, said: “The idea of shared charging sites is being actively explored at a number of locations, to make best use of the charging assets we supply.

"This will undoubtedly help in the journey to net zero."

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